A growing curiosity about pedigreed cat breeds is evident by enthusiastic crowds at cat shows, numerous books and cat care websites. Many people are charmed by a particular breed and like the idea of a cat with a unique appearance and a predictable temperament: one that will fit well into their lifestyles and meet their expectations.

The Cat Fanciers' Association, the largest registry of pedigreed cats in the world, recognizes 41 breeds, many of them rare. Fanciers of pedigreed cats worry that some breeds might be close to "endangered," similar to wild cats such as snow leopards or tigers.

**Get the June 2008 issue of CAT FANCY to read the full article.**